In an August 5 sitdown with Forbes, HOUSE OF THE DRAGON showrunner Ryan Condal revealed that the third season of the series is already being written. Condal also disclosed that the series will conclude with the fourth season. Reading the comments on social forums discloses that a handful of fans are supposedly not interested in further seasons. This is most likely hyperbole, due to some viewer frustration over the conclusion of this second season. Nevertheless, “The Queen Who Ever Was” continues the second season’s streak of building genuine tension, but with little payoff for its audience.
In one of the oddest scenes in the SONG OF ICE & FIRE story arc, Tyland Lannister defeats Admiral Sharako Lohar in mud wrestling. Lohar is impressed by Tyland and agrees to ally with House Green. The quirky but genuine exchange between Tyland and Lohar is entertaining, and central to House Green’s alliance building. Yet, we will have to wait for S3 to see the capabilities of Lohar’s navy. Back at Dragonstone, the ever-wise Larys convinces Aegon to exile themselves in Braavos. The reason? This is where abundant gold is stashed, which can be reclaimed along with the throne following the war. Let House Green and House Black destroy each other, and they can rebuild with Dragonstone. Larys is a forward thinker, but will his plan go to fruition?
The hot-tempered Aemond gives us the most action in the finale when he destroys Sharp Point with his fire-breathed steed Vhagar. One of the best revelations of S2 is the emergence of dragon riders not of Targaryen lineage. This gives Rhaenyra’s House Black more depth to their arsenal to retake the Iron Throne. Despite Daemon’s success in gaining allies, Rhaenyra questions’ Daemon’s loyalty. Her suspicions are not mere paranoia, because Daemon’s recurring hallucinations are a concern. When Daemon foresees a future including a White Walker and Daenerys Targaryen; he swears loyalty to his Queen Rhaenyra.
Despite the lack of action, “The Queen Who Ever Was” features two pivotal scenes of outstanding dialogue. We see Aemond demand that Helaena fly her dragon Dreamfyre into battle. Helaena refuses and declares that Aemond will die in the war. Next, we see Alicent covertly travel to Dragonstone. The purpose? Alicent offers to surrender King’s Landing to Rhaenyra in exchange for her family’s safety. Rhaenyra insists that Aegon must die to ensure the transition.
One can argue that HOTD S1 lacked large-scale action. This is true, but ample conflict existed. Daemon battled and defeated the crab feeder. Rhaenys emerged from the dragon pit during Aegon’s coronation. Vhagar devours young Luke and Arrax. HOTD S2 peaked with Rhaenys’s death in episode four “The Red Dragon and the Gold”. Still, HOTD S3 remains highly anticipated, albeit with reservations. What are your thoughts on HOTD’s sophomore season? We go out now with one final clip. Thanks for joining us for HOUSE OF THE DRAGON Season Two.
